Former warehouse worker Klodian Isallari spent six years picking orders before setting his sights on a long-term career. Klodian decided he needed to get a trade under his belt but was unsure whether to retrain as an electrician or a plumber. He already had some knowledge on plumbing as the warehouse he worked in specialised in plumbing parts, but a friend who was an electrician at Clarkson Evans persuaded him otherwise.

“My friend raved about the company and the prospects available. So I did my research and learnt about the fantastic reputation Clarkson Evans has for apprenticeship training and knew this was a company I wanted to work for,” said Klodian.

At 31-years-old Klodian was doubtful an employer would take him on, so he was ecstatic to learn Clarkson Evans has no upper age limits for its electrical apprenticeships.

“It’s a tough recruitment process so I was happy to learn I had been accepted onto the apprenticeship programme.”

Klodian joined Clarkson Evans’ Birmingham branch and has praised the support he’s received throughout his apprenticeship: “There’s a brilliant support network at Clarkson Evans Whether I’ve needed help with the theoretical or practical side of the job, the training staff have always gone out of their way to ensure I understood each element.”

And onsite things run just as smoothly: “Everyone on site has got one mission – to get the job done to the highest possible standard that we can be proud of,” said Klodian.

Now qualified, Klodian celebrated his success by recently attending the company’s Apprenticeship Presentation Evening. “The presentation evening was fantastic! It was an evening of celebration with almost 30 other ‘graduates’ and their families from across Clarkson Evans’ 17 branches.”

Now Klodian is a Grade 3 Team Leader and reaping the rewards of retraining. “At the start of my apprenticeship there was a slight drop in pay from my previous role, but I had the full support of my wife, so decided to take the plunge.”

The gamble paid off for Klodian, in fact Clarkson Evans’ qualified electricians often earn around £750 a week or more!

So, what would Klodian’s advice be for someone thinking of changing careers? “Don’t think twice - just do it! I’ve learnt you have to take one step backwards for ten steps forward, but it’s well worth it.”